To Do Upon Acceptance

Out of Country Students 

1. I-20

  • Once you receive your I-20, pay your SEVIS fee of $350.00

2. U.S. Embassy

  • Make an appointment at the U.S. Embassy to obtain your F-1 Visa in your country that is nearest to your city.  https://www.usembassy.gov/ 

Upon Arrival in the U.S.:

3. Check-In

  • New students from out of country can only enter the U.S. within 30 days prior to the Program Start Date listed in the I-20, using a valid F-1 visa and valid passport.
  • You must first email oiss@cerritos.edu to notify your arrival in the United States.  We will assist you to schedule an appointment.
  • Make sure you have your new I-20, F-1 visa, Passport, and ready to purchase the required insurance by credit card.

4. Self-Report Tool (SRT) And Guided Placement Tool (GPT) For English/ESL And Math Placement

  • The SRT is now accessible from the MyCerritos portal and here are the instructions. You can complete this online without the need to schedule an appointment
  • After taking the SRT or (GPT) you will need to contact the Office of International Student Services staff to schedule an appointment for academic counseling. Email:  oiss@cerritos.edu 

5. Counseling

  • During the appointment, the International Academic Counselor will review the Self Reporting Tool scores you received, to develop an educational plan. If applicable, please have your official transcripts from previous college/university ready during the international counseling appointment. In order to submit international transcripts to the Office of International Student Services, it must first be evaluated by an approved foreign credential evaluation service. In addition, the evaluated record must be submitted to the Office of Admissions and Records.

6. Orientation

  • The Office of International Student Services will assist you to scheduled for the Mandatory New Student Orientation.  Email: oiss@cerritos.edu 

7. Registration

  • Once you have completed the Mandatory New Student Orientation, you will receive an appointment date to register online using your MyCerritos account.